Adventure and travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads

Have a dad in your life who loves travel? How about a recent graduate who is ready to start exploring the world? If you want to give something more original than cash this June, consider the following gift subscription boxes and experiential gifts that promote adventure both across the US and abroad.

dads and grads

Travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads:

Cairn subscription box: 

We’ve reviewed Cairn in the past, and it’s just as great a value now. Each Cairn subscription box comes with new and innovative outdoor adventure gear, food, and supplies that you probably haven’t seen before. I love learning about new gadgets. Also included in each Cairn box is what I’d call a ‘big ticket item’, worth $25 or more. In the past, the big ticket item has been a hammock, a lantern, or a high quality water bottle. Cairn subscriptions are $27/month.

cairn box

Explore Local subscription box: 

If you have a dad or grad who loves the idea of exploring the country but can’t quite get everywhere (yet), OR, if they’re planning a trip to a US city, an Explore Local box is a great way to learn about the country. Each Explore Local box is packed with local products from a particular US city, allowing you to get to know that location better either before a trip, after, or in case you can’t make it there yourself. We tried the Nashville Explore Local box, which was filled with artisan brands of popcorn, honey, soap, and cards all locally made. Plus, you can include a kid add-on if dad will be bringing kids along on the journey. Explore Local subscriptions are $35/month, or $45 with the kid add-on.

explore local

Try the World subscription box:

Have a foodie dad or grad? They’ll love the Try the World box, which features a different country each month, with gourmet goodies and unique food items ready for tasting. We tried the Korea box, which included Somyeon noodles and kimchi, plus suggestions for how to prepare them (essential!). There are also boxes for Greece and India currently. Try the World is available for $35/month.

try the world

NatureBox:

If dad or grad will be hitting the road and exploring this summer, NatureBox has subscriptions boxes of several sizes to keep them fueled with healthy snacks. This is a great box to keep giving to grads after they leave for college, too. We tried the medium-sized box, which lasted us about a day with teens in the household, but SHOULD last through a long weekend road trip. Each box has a selection of nuts, dried fruit, snack mixes, and trail mixes. We’ve liked everything we’ve tried. NatureBox starts at $30/month.

nature box

Three Aventura dresses for summer travel

I didn’t used to be a ‘dress’ person, until I started traveling regularly. Suddenly, I understood the convenience and comfort of wearing dresses while on the road. Dresses take up less room in my bag than a top and pants, and they give me a pulled together look with little effort. Add a scarf or fun hat, and I’m good to go! Of course, any dress worthy of my carry-on has to be practical, comfortable, and made of quality material, ready for adventure.

dresses for summer travel

Dresses for summer travel:

As an Aventura Clothing ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity to try many Aventura dresses. These three are my top favorites for this summer.

Lidell dress: The Lidell dress is your go-to casual summer dress, ideal for travel days that take you to the farmer’s market, the beach, or the boardwalk. I’ve used mine as a cover-up when wearing my swimsuit, as well as to a casual meal out (pair it with the cute Redford jacket on cooler evenings).

It’s made of 95% organic cotton, with just a bit of spandex for stretch. You get the popular ombre look with stripes, and the hem is 37″, which is pretty generous. My favorite feature is the bra-friendly tank bodice. Pick it up on aqua, dahlia (coral), or high rise (gray tones) for $79.

Garland dress: The Garland might be my absolute favorite, because it looks fitted and tailored, but is in fact soft and stretchy. The Garland is a combination of organic cotton and jersey, and feels very lightweight (I’m wearing last year’s chevron print in the photo below in humid Miami). You get cap sleeves, a faux wrap front, and cute keyhole and belt details. As I noted above, it looks really put together: feminine and sophisticated. The all-over medallion print is trendy and fun.

I really liked wearing the Garland on cruises this spring, and it was my go-to outfit for a semi-formal outdoor dinner event while I traveled last month. Pick up the Garland dress for $82 in Dutch blue, black, or cardinal (which is really more of a soft brick red).

aventura-dresses

Joni dress: The Joni is the only dress listed here that’s 100% organic cotton. Of course, each of my picks are at least mostly organic. That’s because organic cotton is not only great for the environment but also super soft and wrinkle-resistant. The Joni shines as a casual all-around-town dress with a space-dye fabric that creates a tonal striped look that’s understated. You can easily pair it with a scarf or even a wide belt since its pattern is really neutral. I like the Joni for city touring, and on long car or train rides when I know I’ll want to look nice when I arrive.

The Joni has a high tank upper design and comes in spiced coral, black (with some white tones), rock ridge (gray with white tones), and Viridian green (which is more of a sea green/blue combination). Pick it up for $77.

Don’t forget! We are still handing out 60% off coupon codes for any Pit Stops for Kids readers who want to try Aventura! Subscribe to our Pit Stops for Kids newsletter, or if that’s not your thing, just email us!

Summer travel wear for men who don’t care about travel wear

I have three men in my house…at least, I have three people who wear men’s size clothing. Two of them are teens. Since I review and write about travel wear all the time, you’d think they’d understand the benefits of quality travel pants and shirts and appreciate the importance of performance fabrics. But to be honest, they simply can’t be bothered. They want to wear what is comfortable, and in some cases, what they deem coolest.

summer travel wear for men

Luckily, I’ve beat them at their own game, because the following summer travel wear for men are ideal for adventure, yet too stylish and comfortable for them to notice. If you have men like mine who just can’t be bothered, here’s what to get:

Ecoths:

Mathis SS: The Mathis is 100% organic cotton herringbone, which means it looks ‘fancy’ (my son’s word) but doesn’t wrinkle at all. It is his go-to collared short-sleeved shirt for travel days when he needs to step his wardrobe up from his usual tee. Two chest pockets and contrast stitching give the Mathis a stylish finish.

Black Rock 3/4 zip: This pull-over is my guys’ absolute favorite thing from Ecoths so far. In fact, my teen son and my husband have matching ones (by accident) but they wouldn’t let me take a matching photo of them. Men. The Black Rock is so great because it’s very thin and soft, making it the perfect layering piece. It rolls up small in a carry-on or backpack, but is just the right coverage for cooler summer evenings or spring mornings. My son especially wears it everywhere, from local hikes to Italy. It comes in three rich jewel-tone colors. (Pictured in the photo above.)

Baxter Polo: It’s simple. It’s organic cotton. It comes in three heathered-style colors, and it wears just as well out to dinner as on the golf course. Pick it up in M-XXL.

Remember: Ecoths is a division of Aventura Clothing, which means that ANY Pit Stops for Kids reader is eligible to try the brand for 60% off! Simply email us for a coupon code at amy(at)pitstopsforkids(dot)com.

Mountain Khakis:

Equatorial Convertible pant: If your travels involve hiking or are to a tropical climate, every guy in your group needs a pair of these convertible pants/shorts. They’re thin, lightweight, quick-dry, and have wicking properties, and can be made into shorts as well. They’re also UPF 50+.

Camber 104 Hybrid pant: Maybe it’s just that MK pants seem to fit our guys well, but for casual travel days, the Camber 104 is their go-to. This pant is made of a performance stretch blend, so they’re comfortable both on the plane and on the trail. I like the reinforced areas, including the ‘mudflap’ on the hem at the heel.

ExOfficio:

We’re going to get a tad personal here, but our guys wear ExOfficio underwear all the time when they travel. Pick the style preferred, but get these…they dry fast so you can rinse them out on the go, they’re insanely comfortable, and they breathe well. Worth the investment!

Aventura Clothing capsule wardrobe for spring travel

This spring, ‘capsule wardrobes’ are all the rage, and I understand why. The idea of putting together a collection of coordinating and complimenting pieces of clothing makes for a more organized day-to-day life and certainly makes packing easier for any trip. I’ve actually been creating capsule wardrobes for years, without knowing it had a name…I’m minimalistic by nature and probably just couldn’t be bothered with too many outfits in my closet!

spring capsule wardrobe

But if you ARE interested in creating a capsule wardrobe for spring travel, Aventura Clothing makes it really easy, because their pieces already compliment each other. As regular readers know, I’ve been an ambassador for Aventura for years now, and this quality brand keeps me coming back because it consistently offers high quality, organic clothing that’s comfortable, stylish, and practical.

Creating an Aventura capsule wardrobe for spring travel:

Here’s what my Aventura wardrobe looks like this spring, utilizing new pieces from the spring 2017 catalogue, plus a few classic extras. Forgive me if my ‘capsule’ isn’t by the book; I may have fewer pieces than a traditional capsule, but wanted to stay true to what really does go into my bag for an average spring trip.

Note: if you’d like to put together a winter/cold weather Aventura capsule wardrobe for travel, check out this post from Atlanta 365.

One of the most important ‘rules’ of creating a travel capsule wardrobe is color coordination. Pick a basic color scheme, and stick to it. I often choose black/gray/white, but I’m boring that way.

  • I start with two pairs of pants: one capri and one light pant. (You could substitute shorts here, but I like to have one lightweight pair of pants for inclement weather, historic sites or cathedrals where I need to cover my knee, and chilly air conditioned buildings.) For me, the Titus Ankle pant is the winner; it’s a very classic style that comes in basic colors. I have the white. For the capri, I love the new Addie capri, because the length is adjustable from a long pair of shorts to a full capri. Versatile pieces are key!
  • I add two tank tops: one undershirt-type, and one dressier type. For my undershirt/base layer tank, I have two favorites, and what you choose will depend on your style and body type. The Zelda Tank is a nylon/spandex blend that almost works as a spanx (I said almost!). It can be worn alone, or layered with a light sweater or dress, which is what I do. If you want more of a camisole style, go with the Aster cami.  For the dressier tank, I am currently in love with the Pearson Tank, which has really stylish cross-straps in the back to dress it up. It comes in several color patterns; I recommend the gray/black, because it’s classic and will go with your other pieces.
  • Next, add two tees or blousy tops: These are your main tops, that can go from cool spring weather to warmer days. The Sonnet hoodie is a winner in this category, because it’s made of soft organic cotton that’s lightweight and doesn’t wrinkle, has 3/4 sleeves so it doesn’t get too hot, but has a cute hood just in case. I got the spiced coral color, because it goes well with my gray/black tones. For the second tee, I love the Sonnet top. It has a similar weight and feel (and similar brushed heather look), but is a fitted tee with short sleeves. You can get more adventurous with different styles, but I stay true to one or two basic themes in my capsule wardrobe, so items can better mix and match.

Don’t forget! If you like what you see here, you can get a 60% coupon code to Aventura Clothing just by being a Pit Stops for Kids reader! Email for the coupon code at amy(at)pitstopsforkids(dot)com.

  • Add two dresses or skirts: At least one dress should be ‘dressy’ for nice evenings out. My pick is the Garland dress. This cute wrap-style dress is so light and breathable, it was my go-to choice while touring ruins in humid Central America, but also went out to dinner with me. For a second dress, the Hollis is simple, comfortable, and ready for adventure, especially if you pair it with Aventura’s new Go Anywhere Shortie that fits under any dress or skirt.
  • Finish with one light sweater and one wrap: You need at least one sweater that can be worn as a layering piece. The new Liv Sweater is thin enough to pack down small, but warm when worn over a tank or tee. You’ll be shocked to hear I went with gray. It fits down in my backpack for day trips, too. For evenings out, I am in love with the Kyle wrap, which goes perfectly with any dress, tank, or top, as long as you pick a nice, neutral color.
  • Don’t forget to include a few scarves: This is my #1 tip for successful capsule packing…accessorize with items that pack down small! Scarves take up almost no room, yet give boring outfits new life faster than anything else. The Madeline scarf can be worn multiple ways, and is very light cotton so it won’t cause you to overheat.

Depending on your destination, you might also need: 1. rain jacket or fleece, 2. swimsuit and cover up, 3. sun hat or beanie. Don’t forget: you only need two pairs of shoes: comfortable walking/active shoes and sandals.

Be sure to check our past posts of Aventura Clothing reviews…many of the older styles are still available!

Central America packing list and gear picks

Heading to Central America? You’re going to need to pack smart, for both sun protection and insect protection. And of course, you’ll want to be comfortable in humid and tropical weather. We just returned from Panama and Costa Rica, where we stayed relatively cool and safe from the elements by following this Central America packing list.

central america packing list

Central America packing list:

  • 2-3 lightweight, long-sleeved travel shirts
  • 2-3 lightweight t-shirts or tank tops
  • 2 pairs quick-dry, wicking travel pants (convertible a plus)
  • 2 pairs of shorts, skirts, or dresses
  • 4-5 pair quick-dry travel underwear/bras (trust us)
  • 1 swim suit (preferably a ‘sporty’ type for activities)
  • 1 light pullover, sweater, or cardigan
  • 1 breathable rain jacket
  • 1 pair walking or hiking shoes
  • 1 pair water-ready sandals
  • 3-5 pair hiking socks (preferably lightweight wool)
  • 1 wide-brimmed, lightweight hat (think safari style)

Gear picks: the brands and products we recommend:

Look for clothing that’s specifically designed for hot, humid environments with lots of bright sunshine and more than its share of insects. Your clothing needs to be breathable, loose enough to be comfortable while you’re active, and quick-drying for water sports (and humidity and sweat). Here’s what we took to Panama and Costa Rica and loved:

Toad & Co Debug line: Toad & Co’s ‘Debug’ line comes treated with insect shield technology that lasts through years of washes. It’s much safer to wear bug-treated clothing than to spray insect repellent directly onto your skin, and because Toad & Co’s Debug line is designed for tropical environments, most items are also very breathable and lightweight. I wore the Debug Hike Thru shirt both onboard our UnCruise on travel days and in the jungle. Their bandana scarf is also a great item to accessorize with, giving your debug benefits without buying a whole outfit.

Craghoppers Insect shield line: Craghoppers’ Insect Shield line is made for men and women, and offers both long and short-sleeved ‘Panama’ shirts, lightweight jackets with multiple pockets, and hiking pants. Our Pit Stops Dad loved the NatGeo Insect Shield cargo shorts and I liked the NatGeo adventure shirt. Best of all, there’s a nice line of kids’ insect shield clothing, which can be hard to find elsewhere! Our son wore the Insect Shield half-zip.

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “c0e81bd1f53dedc8669ba2ef6c71c93e”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B00ZE4O4W2,B00ZE6BV6C,B00O3X4UKG,B00SAZW7QW”;

ExOfficio BugsAway line: I’ve always loved ExOfficio for travel wear, and their BugsAway line is fashionable and comfortable. I’ve worn their Damselfly pant in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Costa Rica. And ExOfficio is absolutely where to go for quick dry underwear for your trip!

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “c0e81bd1f53dedc8669ba2ef6c71c93e”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B00DZLVIZM,B00HUVUBGA,B011D4SCZ6,B00LCL9JBM”;

Columbia Sportswear: Columbia doesn’t make insect-treated clothing (that we are aware of), but they do make some of our favorite hiking/travel shirts and pants, and are less expensive than most. They come in kid sizes too, and our son’s favorite is the Bahama long-sleeve. Definitely shop Columbia for zip-off convertible hiking pants, too.

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “c0e81bd1f53dedc8669ba2ef6c71c93e”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B0089FB5JI,B00DCZJINU,B01GOQ5NP0,B00DCYCK8G”;

Mountain Khakis’ Equatorial shirt and pants: This line isn’t insect-repellant, but it IS SPF-blocking and when we wore Equatorial shirts in the jungles of Panama and Costa Rica, these were the ONLY shirts that stood up to more than one wear. Somehow, the sweat wicked off; we called them our ‘magic’ shirts. MK also makes an Equatorial pant that zips off. Both are recommended.

Aventura Clothing: Again, no bug-proaction line (but maybe if I keep hinting?), but Aventura Clothing makes THE best after-adventure clothing out there. When you get back from your paddle boarding session or jungle trek, put on soft, organic cotton for your evening indoors. This spring, I am loving Aventura’s Hannah cardigan and Pearson tank for layering. The men’s line, Ecoths, makes really stylish and comfortable short-sleeved, button-down shirts perfect for cocktail hour and dinner. Pit Stop Dad’s favorite: Garrick Polo.

See also: our most comfortable travel pants for moms!

Sun hats: The most important thing about sun hats in Central America is…wear one. So pick a wide-brimmed style you like, and bring it along! It helps to pick a style that flattens easily for travel, and has a strap to secure it both when wore and when you want to strap it to your bag or backpack. We love the sun hats for kids at Sunday Afternoons and Columbia, and the adult offerings at Tilley.

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “c0e81bd1f53dedc8669ba2ef6c71c93e”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B01CZ18II2,B000AMJWCU,B008FIFFY0,B010M3PL6M”;

Apple Watch travel tips

I bought my Apple Watch for heath and GPS exercise tracking. I regarded its travel uses with skepticism. After all, I have a phone, which already accompanies me on trips, and saw no need to carry two devices for the same purpose. However, after using the Apple Watch for a few months, I’ve found it to be an extremely useful travel tool. It’s not great for everything, but it’s helpful enough that I no longer travel without it. Ready for some Apple Watch travel tips?

How, when, and why to use your Apple Watch while traveling

Apple Watch travel tips:

For me, the prime benefit of traveling with my Apple Watch Series 2 is the ability to keep my hands free and my phone stashed away. Using the apps on my watch means I can keep my backpack or tote bag closed, my eyes up, and my distractions to a minimum. Here are the uses I’ve found for my watch on travel days:

Boarding passes in Passbook:

When I check into my flight online, I use the appropriate airline app on my phone. Then I save my mobile boarding pass to Passbook. When I open Passbook on my watch, my boarding pass is right there. I can scan it at the gate and at security and never have to dig my phone out of my bag. I also keep the airline apps I use on my watch, because they will alert me of any changes to my flight right on my wrist.

Note: the TripIt app is now available for Apple Watch too, and I find it very helpful to get their alerts.

Directions on my wrist:

I have no sense of direction, so when I travel, I rely heavily on my Maps app. When I use Maps with my phone, I’m distracted, looking down at my screen while I walk unfamiliar streets, or worse, glancing too often at my phone while driving in unfamiliar cities. When I set up mapping directions on my phone before I depart, they sync to my watch, which gives me point-by-point directions as I go. I wasn’t sure if I’d like haptic touch (where the watch buzzes and vibrates to indicate which way to go), but I find I love it. I can drive and be confident about when to turn without taking my eyes off the road.

News bites in real time:

I have the CNN and New York Times apps on my watch, and appreciate how I can stay up-to-date on news as I travel. Yes, I could see updates on my phone, but how often, on a busy day, do I actually take the time to open a news app and read? With CNN and NYT on my wrist, short, one-line news bites are delivered to me, helping me be more aware as I travel.

Note: there are many other great news sources; for my watch, I chose CNN and NYT because their app headlines are particularly succinct and digestible…good for the small screen of my watch.

Apple pay on the go:

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve approached the register at an airport newsstand store or dining venue and had to dig around in my bag for my wallet or phone to pay. It’s time consuming, and can be unsafe to open everything up…important things could easily fall out of my bag. I use Apple Pay on my watch, and I’d say it works easily 70% of the time. The other 30%, it’s a big pain in the butt because it doesn’t work for some reason and I have to dig my wallet out after all. So there are negatives to using Apple Pay, but still worth trying.

GPS tracking for safety:

Some people don’t like to track their GPS, and I get that, but when I’m in a new city, I still like to run outdoors when it’s possible. I appreciate the fact that with just my watch, I can track my route, so I can easily find my hotel again. Also, in the case of anything going wrong, my route is tracked on my phone (which is back at the hotel room), so my family can more easily find me. It’s just a precaution, but one I appreciate.

A few of my favorite Apple Watch apps (not mentioned above):

  • TripIt: great to plan travel and get live updates on your travel plans
  • Timer: fun to time waits in line (so you can prove to kids that they haven’t been ‘waiting forever!’)
  • Breathe: a nice relaxation tool on travel days
  • Uber: I’ve found it to be pretty seamless as long as your account is up-to-date on your phone
  • 1Password: for when I’ve forgotten a password that I need to enter on my phone and my computer isn’t handy
  • Music: I pair with bluetooth headphones and listen to music on the go

What I never use Apple Watch for:

  • Email: heck no! Way too small a screen
  • Photos/video: though I know people who like the remote camera app
  • Banking/Paypal: no real reason other than the small screen
  • Social media: I like to see Instagram, Facebook and more on a bigger screen

Do you have an Apple Watch? Do you use it for travel?

Travel style for men: Best travel wear brands

We have three men in our house…at least when it comes to clothing size. Our Pit Stops Dad and our two teenage sons all have a no-frills travel wear style, and they’re never interested in a lot of shopping. But I know how important it is to buy quality travel clothing that can last a long time, stand up to wear-and-tear, and perform in a variety of weather conditions. If the men in your life don’t want to do a lot of travel wear research, point them in this direction: we have the best travel wear brands for men, all in one place!

Best travel wear for men

Ecōths:

Pronounced ecos, Ecōths has been a favorite of ours for awhile. You can read some recent reviews here. Why do we like it? This brand gives back, and since it’s the men’s line of the Aventura Clothing company, you can save money with your #AventuraLife membership (free to join). But none of that matters if the clothes come up lacking, right? Ecōths shirts and tees are primarily organic cotton, which means they don’t wrinkle in your luggage, they’re incredibly soft to wear, and the colors stay vibrant. Our guys love that the same brushed cotton polo worn all day city touring can continue on to dinner that same night. We’re all about packing less.

A few Ecōths favorites:

Noah Zip-Neck Sweater: My husband’s go-to pullover from fall through spring, the Noah is excellent for chilly planes and road trips alike. There are many fun colors to choose from, too.

ecoths

Asher shirt: Another very simple design that comes in rich jewel tones (but nothing too flashy), the Asher is perfect for layering. Pit Stops Dad wears his over a tee for morning outings, since it can be easily stashed into a backpack.

Hendrix shirt: For warm-weather trips, my sons love the trendy-looking Hendrix (maybe they have a bit more style than their dad?) With a collar and breast pockets, it looks dressy when it needs to, but is also casual enough for a cruise, a bike ride, or a dude ranch.

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “b5496bdfc17cccbe713381266493f38c”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B00RW5FGZ0,B00RW5L4XS,B00RW5F3XK,B00RW5FNOY”;

Columbia:

The favorite outdoor wear brand of my eldest son, Columbia is where to shop when you need rugged, trail-and-travel ready clothing. No nonsense, no-frills, and usually easy on the wallet, Columbia has proved its value to us time and again. We love their ski wear as well, but for this post, we’ll talk travel shirts and pants.

A few Columbia favorites:

Silver Ridge shirt: If your man in your life needs an all-purpose travel shirt that can go from trail to tour, the Silver Ridge delivers. It’s extremely lightweight, so it works well in tropical climates where you need to protect your skin from sun and mosquitos, and is breathable and loose for those days you’ll be hiking.

Featherweight hike shirt: This shirt is dubbed as ‘titanium’, and my son can attest to this rating…this shirt traveled with him for 26 days on the Pacific Crest Trail, and is STILL in his closest, worn regularly at home. It’s expensive, but worth the investment.

Men’s Cascades Explorer pant: These pants can go anywhere, and look good even when you pull them out of your suitcase on the last day of a trip. Plus, they can be washed pretty well in hotel room sinks.

Additional ideas:

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “50d268ba2f4d12ecc9e93a1900481469”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B00L1RHU4K,B0058YRY6G,B010RSEZXW,B0002XSYOY”;

ExOfficio:

No way around it, ExOfficio clothing can get expensive. But it’s also extremely well-made, will last a long time, and a few core pieces can perform multiple functions on an outdoorsy or adventure travel trip. Their BugsAway line is especially high in value.

A few ExOfficio favorites:

BugsAway Talisman: This shirt was worn by my husband multiple times during our cruise through Panama and Costa Rica. It serves several purposes: the insect repellent ‘baked’ into it keeps him safe from mosquito-borne illness, and the sun protection keeps sunburn at bay. Plus, it rinses out nicely between uses.

Ziwa convertible pant: These zip-away convertible pants are excellent for hiking and more rugged travel days, especially since they can be made into shorts at any time. I have the women’s version of this pant, by the way, and love it.

GeoTrek’r shirt: If you need a short-sleeved shirt, this is your no-frills, simple option. The GeoTrek’r has a security zip pocket, but is otherwise exactly what it looks like: a basic button-down short-sleeve that will last through many adventures.

 

Products for parents who work on the go

None of us want to, but sometimes as parents, we simply must work on the go. My job has me working on the fly on airplanes (pun intended), in cars, and in hotel rooms on just about every trip we take, and while I’m the exception, I know most parents have to check in with work at least a few times during most family vacations.

work-from-the-road

Below are my favorite products to help ease the pain of working while away, plus some tips for getting that proposal sent or that project done from the road.

Tip: Parents trying into balance work and family life can use Cloud Services such as Windows Desktops hosted with CloudDesktopOnline and online file storage with CloudAppsPortal .

logitechLogitech Keys to Go:

Anyone who’s ever tried to get actual work done on an iPad knows how crucial it is to have a keyboard. We’ve tried many portable keyboards, but find the Logitech Keys to Go pad works the best for us. It works on both iPads or iPhones, which we love, and is small enough to fit in a jacket pocket. The keys are still full-sized with iOS shortcuts, and the pad is spill-resistant (which we’ve put to the test). Pick one up in one of several colors for under $80 on Amazon…if you work from the road even a few times a year, it’s worth it.

Tip: Use an internet fax service if your hotel isn’t business friendly.

Yurbuds noise-isolating wireless ear buds:

yurbudsEar buds that don’t get tangled, stay in your ear, and don’t restrict your movements? Yes, please. I love Yurbuds Leap (for women) when I need to listen into a conference call or edit a video while traveling because I can move around in the car or on the plane and not feel tethered to my screen. These bluetooth enabled ear buds have three inline remote buttons that make it easy to pause or resume work, control volume, and skip tracks, and Yurbuds ‘twist and lock’ technology that keeps them from slipping out of your ear. This feature is nifty: by angling the buds when you place them in your ears, then twisting, they become very secure in your ear (read the instructions when you get them, or you’ll be confused!) You get two bonuses with Yurbuds, too: 1. they double as great workout ear buds, and 2. they’re easy to pack in their own carrying case (included). Pick up a pair for $99 on Amazon.

Cube light from Enevu:

I love this little (big!) light. Billed as a personal light by Enevu, the cube is a small but efficient LED light you can take anywhere. Great for emergencies, it also works wonders when you have to see while getting a bit of work done after the kids go to sleep in a hotel room, or as a nightlight for kids in unfacube-lightmiliar places. Extremely lightweight and packable, I toss our cube into my day bag or carry-on to have for whatever comes up. Its especially useful when you don’t have a power outlet nearby on trains or when the overhead light in a plane cabin is just too bright or intrusive. The cube can be set to multiple settings, from dim to bright to colored light. Best of all, it’s under $30! (Beware of cheaper knock-offs online.)

Amplifyze TCL Pulse bluetooth alarm:

Let’s say you need to get up earlier than everyone else to get some work done, but don’t want to wake everyone else in your hotel room with your alarm. The TCL Pulse is a bluetooth enabled vibrating alarm you can set bedside, or even under your pillow. Controlled by your smartphone, the Pulse has adjustable vibration levels and snooze option. You can set it to wake you by sound if you prefer.

tcl-pulseWhat I love about it: I used to set my iPhone alarm in hotels, never wanting to figure out different alarm clocks in each room. But sleeping next to my phone is not restful, as it wakes me throughout the night with various buzzes and updates if not in sleep mode. With the Pulse, I can set the alarm on my phone, then put it far from my bed. Pick it up for $39.

Put your newfound productivity to use with these tips:

1. Pick a work hour and stick to it. Having a schedule while on vacation may not always be possible, but if you need to carve out some work time, it simply won’t happen unless you schedule it in. Opt for a quiet time of day for your family. Maybe that’s nap time at mid-day, or maybe it’s the hour just before dinner or the hour after the kids go to bed.

2. Find a place to work. Maybe this is in your hotel room or vacation rental, but if you’re trying to work after the kids go to sleep or while it’s noisy in the room, it simply won’t work. Think outside the box that is your 300 square feet…head down to the lobby or a coffee shop in the immediate area. The change of scenery will motivate you to get to work.

3. Think strategically when looking for wifi: Always have an app ready to tell you where the closest free wifi is, but also be ready to think on your feet. If you’re camping or staying in an otherwise remote location, the local grocery store or postal center will likely have wifi. Ditto for laundry facilities. I once found excellent wifi sitting on a picnic table outside the public laundry area of a national park lodge. In less rural areas, opt for quiet corners of hotel lobbies, coffee shops, or libraries. Worst case scenario: just suck it up and pay for wifi in your hotel room or on the plane. Sometimes, it’s worth it. Check to see if joining a loyalty program (always free) will grant your free wifi first, however! This is true of Kimpton hotels, among others.

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “87cfb6f6de58c95d5111725a5c4ebbe0”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B00MUTWLW4,B00NJ1M3J8,B00WVM0JAQ,B014WJTHTO”;

How do you tackle work while on vacation? 

As we disclose whenever applicable, Pit Stops for Kids received the products above for the purpose of review. Not all products we looked at made the cut. All opinion is our own.

Travel Gear We Use: Four most comfortable travel pants for moms

A few great pairs of travel pants go a long way…my favorites have gone from Northwest hiking trails to European cities to Central American marketplaces, and many more locations in-between. If you plan to pack light and travel carry-on only, it’s essential to bring a few pairs of pants that can do it all. For women, here are my absolute most comfortable travel pants:

comfortable-travel-pants

Toad & Co Cassi pant:

The Cassi pant wins top honors here because it’s urban and stylish, but also stretchy and athletic. It’s moisture-wicking and quick drying, crucial for all-weather, all-season travel, and the polyester-wool blend adds nice give to the waist and knees. The Cassi is equally comfortable on the plane as it is on the trail, and because this pant features a tailored look, you can definitely wear it during city travel (out to dinner, touring museums or historic sites, etc).

You get a zippered stash pocket on the thigh for valuables, plus a coin pocket in addition to two back pockets. It comes in just graphite and black, but I don’t mind the lack of bright colors; when I travel, I stick to basic color palettes so I can mix and match clothing.

Pick up the Cassi for $85.

Aventura Carlin:

If you need a less ‘technical’ pant that looks less trail-ready and more city exploration-ready, the Carlin has the same stretchy goodness you need when traveling with a brushed organic cotton feel. (The 3% lycra makes it forgiving.) The Carlin is very earthy-looking, with oversized buttons and exposed seams. I was reminded of cargo pants when I first saw it (though it does not have cargo pockets).

If your travels will not take you up mountains or through brush but you want to be able to climb steps, navigate traffic, and relax in cafes looking put-together yet comfortable, grab a Carlin pant (or two) in neutral colors to add to your travel wardrobe. And as always with Aventura clothing, subscribe to our FREE mailing list for your 60% off discount code!

Pick up the Carlin in Walnut, Black, or Smoked Pearl for $85.

travel-pants

Prana Halle:

The PrAna Halle has been a travel companion of mine for over a year. It comes on just about every major trip I take. Like the Cassi, the Halle is moisture-resistant and quick-drying, and reinforced at the knees for durability. It’s stretchy like all the travel pants I’m listing, made with a combination of nylon and spandex. The Halle deserves its own place on this list because of the variety of sizing and colors available: you can get the Halle in tall or petite sizing in burgundy, coal, cargo green, and dark khaki, in addition to black.

You can also roll up the leg of the Halle and secure with snaps to create capri pants, ideal for creek crossings, chilly mornings that turn into warm days, and water sports like kayaking. Like the Cassi, the look is fitted and tailored, so you’ll fit in wherever you find yourself adventuring.

Pick up the Halle for $85, or save as much as $30 on Amazon.

ExOfficio Damselfly:

The Damselfly is the least fitted/tailored and most rough-and-tumble of my picks, perfect for serious adventure when you’re traveling. I have loved ExOfficio clothing for years, and the quality never disappoints. The Damselfly is distinctive in that it is part of their BugsAway line, which means it’s treated with insect-repellent ExOfficio calls InsectShield. This repellent stays on the clothing for as many as 70 washes, saving you from spraying anything directly on your skin. I’ve been wearing BugsAway clothing in Central and South America to protect against the Zika virus as I travel.

Other note-worthy features of the Damselfly: a packable back zip pocket, and a drawstring waist (with velcro closure at the fly). It doesn’t get any more comfortable than this!

Pick up the Damselfly in three basic colors for $80, or save significantly via Amazon.

What comfortable travel pants are your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Subscribe to our Pit Stops for Kids seasonal newsletter, and get an exclusive travel ‘cheat sheet’, free! Click here!

 

Efficient vacation packing: How to create multiple outfits with three base pieces

I pack carry-on only 99% of the time, and I never bring an entirely new outfit for each day of my trip. Instead, I pack three basic clothing staples that can be reused with featured pieces to create multiple looks. If you want to achieve efficient vacation packing and have room for all those souvenirs you want to bring home, here’s how.

For this article, I’m using Aventura Clothing as my main example; I am an ambassador for this travel and outdoor adventure clothing brand, and am offering a steep discount to readers at the end of this post!

efficient-vacation-packing

First, a few rules for efficient vacation packing:

  • Pack with a color scheme in mind: I’m fashion-impaired, so I make this easy on myself…before each trip, I decide whether I’m going to focus on black/gray/white tones or earth/beige/brown tones. Then, I pack clothes within that color scheme. This way, I only need to bring base pieces in the single color tone, and I can get away with only one or two pairs of shoes, too.
  • In colder weather, think dresses: When you have to pack for chilly climates, your clothing will be bulkier. Time to eliminate entire pieces! Go with wintery dresses or tunics instead of pants and shirts and cut down on the number of clothing items you have to pack.
  • Wear bulkier items on the plane: It will be cold with the air conditioning blasting at you anyway! You’ll need to bring a light layer or hoodie on just about any trip; wear it on the plane or stash it in your backpack or tote. Ditto for your bulkier shoes, but be sure to wear a pair that breathes and allows blood circulation.

Base pieces you’ll need for every trip:

Now that you know a few rules to keep in mind, it’s time to gather your three base clothing items you’ll need every time you travel. Base pieces include:

base-items

  • 1-3 basic but high quality camisoles or tank tops: We love Aventura Clothing’s Aster scrappy cami, as well as ExOfficio’s version.
  • 1 pair of high quality leggings: Try the Aventura Bienne legging, or your favorite Lululemon/Athleta/PrAna offering. You get the idea. In summer, substitute thicker leggings for a pair of tights.
  • 1 basic tee or long-sleeved shirt: Grab your favorite organic cotton tee in a neutral shade of your color scheme. In colder weather, I’ve been loving the Aventura Zoe top, which is form-fitting but has just enough detail for a ‘finished’ look, but you may already have something in your closet. Tunics work well too (think yoga tops).

Time to supplement with seasonal pieces:

With your base pieces in place, you can now pack fewer outfits, because many clothing items can pull double duty. Your cami can go under sweaters and blouses, eliminating the need for multiple t-shirts, and your leggings can be worn with dresses, skirts, and tunics, cutting down on the need to pack bulkier items like pants. You can also eliminate most of your socks if wearing tights often. Here are are few examples from Aventura’s new fall line (the colors look boring now, but work wonders out of your suitcase!):

aventura-clothing

  • The Karter Hoodie: This oversized hoodie can be both a layering piece and an outfit, eliminating the need for a second light layer. Because it’s tunic-length, you can pair it with your leggings and cami and be done! Put your tee underneath instead of the cami if you think the day will warm up.
  • Rita Dress: The Rita is wrinkle-resistant and has some spandex added in for give during travel days. I love, love, love bringing wintery dresses on trips, because not only do I eliminate the need for extra shirts, but I can also forgo pants and socks. I pair the Rita with leggings or tights and I’m done! For the Rita and other wintery dresses to pull double duty, simply pair with a favorite scarf and leather boots for a night-time look.
  • Brooklyn Tunic:  Tunics are great for travel. They’re forgiving, they go with many things, and they only need leggings and a cami! I love this particular tunic for the raw-edge seams and cowl neckline…it looks urban and sleek. If you want variety when using the Brooklyn on a second day, pair with straight-leg pants instead and get a whole new look.

One last tip: Always, always pack accessories that won’t take up room, like scarves and beanie-type hats. A fresh scarf can change up any outfit, at any time! 

amzn_assoc_placement = “adunit0”;
amzn_assoc_search_bar = “true”;
amzn_assoc_tracking_id = “pitstoforkid-20”;
amzn_assoc_ad_mode = “manual”;
amzn_assoc_ad_type = “smart”;
amzn_assoc_marketplace = “amazon”;
amzn_assoc_region = “US”;
amzn_assoc_title = “My Amazon Picks”;
amzn_assoc_linkid = “5cff3a8b5f0e508e11c71a553e7363cc”;
amzn_assoc_asins = “B018IW98RW,B018J3NY1G,B01694MN4G,B018IURGYG”;

Subscribe to our Pit Stops for Kids seasonal newsletter, and get an exclusive travel ‘cheat sheet’, free! You’ll also get 60% off your next Aventura Clothing order! Click here!